Iran’s Foreign Ministry has firmly rejected any discussion of extending the 60-day period referenced in the Islamabad memorandum of understanding, with spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei declaring that Tehran does not formulate policy under pressure or artificial timelines—particularly when the United States breached the understanding before negotiations even began.
“No provision in the memorandum established a 60-day deadline,” Baqaei clarified during a press conference on Monday. “The document only envisaged negotiations on the nuclear issue within that timeframe. However, we never commenced any negotiations at all, and the US violated the understanding from the very beginning. The 60-day issue is therefore moot.”
Baqaei stressed that Iran’s decisions would be driven exclusively by national interests and strategic assessments, not external compulsion. “Iran is not a party that adjusts its policies under pressure and deadlines,” he asserted.
Armed Forces on High Alert
The spokesman confirmed that Iran’s military remains vigilant amid ongoing tensions. “Our Armed Forces are keeping a watchful eye on any movement,” he said, adding that strengthening ties with regional countries remains a central pillar of Tehran’s diplomatic efforts.
US ‘Confusion’ Over Iran Policy
Addressing Washington’s claims of having shifted its priorities regarding Iran, Baqaei characterized the statements as evidence of “continued confusion” within the US administration. He argued that America’s military posture against Iran serves no legitimate purpose other than advancing the ambitions of “a regime in our region.”
The spokesman recalled that the US had initially justified its actions by citing an “imminent threat” from Iran—a rationale the Pentagon itself has since rejected, confirming no such threat existed.
“They have trapped themselves in a quagmire,” Baqaei charged. “To justify their failures, they are forced to repeatedly change their objectives. Now their concern has shifted to the Strait of Hormuz—which was open before their aggression.”
Urging US Withdrawal
Baqaei offered a blunt recommendation to Washington: “The best course for the US is to extricate itself as soon as possible before becoming more deeply entangled.” He suggested that acknowledging past mistakes could pave the way for better decisions, though he expressed doubt that US officials possess “such courage.”
Source: Iranian media (edite dby Al-Manar)